THE Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) is looking to fast track implementation of its medium-term plans.
These include improving major gateways; aggressively pursuing computerization; pursuing Public Private Participation where private-public partnerships will be aggressively wooed specifically in the area of port operation; and boosting safety and security with the goal of zero maritime accidents.
Specifically, PPA is planning to add more Vessel Traffic Monitoring Systems in at least four more areas — Iloilo, Davao, Zamboanga and Romblon. Only Manila and Batangas port have such systems.
PPA is also finalizing the e-ticketing system to address problems of passenger overloading and improper stowage/inaccurate recording of the weight of cargoes due to inaccurate information and statistics.
The e-ticketing system will be interphased with all concerned public and private maritime institutions, particularly the Philippine Coast Guard, Maritime Industry Authority and shipping lines, to ensure uniform data on all vessels sailing into every port.
